Tears For Fears - Shout (Mercury)

Altogether more relaxed and accomplished than their last single, "Mothers Talk". Effective and powerful pop with an insidious chorus you'll find yourself singing at the most inopportune moments. For that reason, a hit. (Lesley White, Smash Hits, December 6, 1984)

So, it's not quite such a bummer this week after all. I mean there's a new single from Tears For Fears called "Shout". It sounds a bit like the soundtrack to Merry Christmas Mister Boring. You know that film with David Bowie in it pretending to be Michael York dressed up as a lizard. (neil [Nigel Planer], Record Mirror, December 1, 1984)

From Real Men to unashamed Quiche Eaters, and 'arguably their best single yet', it says here. the singing is far too angst-ridden; something a bit cooler would have been twice as effective. But musically, as ever, they're doing interesting, textured things. I just hope that they haven't abandoned their poppier side in favour of this more sombre mood. (Sunie, No 1, November 24, 1984)